E150d — Sulphite ammonia caramel
E150d (Sulphite ammonia caramel), a color, is rated "avoid": worth avoiding. The caramel color used in colas and dark sodas. Contains 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI, a possible animal carcinogen). Coca-Cola and Pepsi reformulated to cut 4-MEI levels in 2012.
What is Sulphite ammonia caramel?
Caramel color produced with both ammonia and sulphite. The dominant coloring in cola-style soft drinks, dark beers, and balsamic vinegar.
What does it do to the body?
Both the 4-MEI concern (rodent carcinogen) and the sulphite concern (asthma triggers in 1% of people) apply. After 2012 California warnings, the largest cola brands cut the 4-MEI in their products by reformulating, so modern levels are much lower than they used to be.
What regulators say
EFSA kept the acceptable daily intake at 200 mg per kg of body weight per day in 2011. California Proposition 65 lists 4-MEI as a carcinogen and triggers warning labels above 29 micrograms per day exposure.
Risk rating: Avoid
Known or suspected to cause harm: a substance EFSA or another regulator has flagged, or one restricted in some jurisdictions. Best kept out of a regular diet.
Source: California OEHHA — 4-MEI in Proposition 65 list ↗